CNN/YouTube GOP debate question

Well, needless to say, I was thrilled to see one of the questions I submitted to the YouTube debate was actually used. I tried to make all three of them at least mildly amusing, but there was a serious question I wanted to convey at the core of each. I think CNN picked the best one.

Dick Cheney has been a uniquely powerful and influential vice president. I wanted to know if the candidates on the stage would expect the same from the person they might pick as a running mate.

I was also pretty happy with the answers to the question from Senators Thompson and McCain. Both stated the obvious, that the primary responsibility is to serve as President in the event of an emergency. But they both elaborated beyond that.

Thompson quipped that, at first, he was afraid the 3D image of Cheney was him. I thought he gave a thoughtful (if a bit ponderous) response to the question. He ended with the remark that the VP should have the “authority the president gives him” — essentially, only the power delegated to him (or her). Personally, I’d have to agree, because it implies that the President is still numero uno. I’m not sure that’s always been the case with the present administration.

I was also pleased with McCain’s frank response, although I was less inclined to agree. He seemed to feel that because the current occupant of the Oval Office lacked a great deal of foreign policy experience, and thus the expansion of Cheney’s influence was justified. I’d be inclined to agree that a VP playing an advisory role in areas of expertise is welcome, but I suspect Cheney’s influence has gone beyond advisory. According to the Washington Post series from earlier this year, it apparently went well beyond advisory and well beyond foreign policy as well.

All things considered, I was pleased that the question was taken more seriously than it was delivered. I may not have agreed with every word, but both responses were thoughtful and well articulated.

A big thanks to Oscar Campos for the outstanding animation work and to Randy Davidson, my voice guy.